Threats to Maritime Navigational Safety within the Jurisdictional Waters of Cameroon and Beyond: The Response of the Law

Abstract

The sea has maintained its pivotality to international trade over the decades, serving as the primary conduit for international transportation of goods. This has in turn catalyzed the economic ascendance of both coastal and landlocked States. Empirical evidence reveals that over 90% of Cameroon’s total exports and a substantial proportion of its imports are facilitated through maritime transportation. Concomitantly, the significance of maritime navigation has precipitated a proliferation of illicit activities offshore such as piracy, armed robbery at sea, terrorism, the transportation of contraband cargo, illegal fishing and environmental pollution. These challenges have engendered a considerable threat to navigational safety within Cameroonian waters and the Gulf of Guinea, necessitating an examination of the extant legal frameworks and remedies provided by international, regional and national instruments, as well as the progress made in mitigating these threats. The overarching objective of this endeavor is to augment maritime security governance and environmental stewardship within the jurisdictional waters of Cameroon and the Gulf of Guinea, thereby fostering a secure and sustainable maritime environment. This study adopts the doctrinal research methodology to achieve its objectives.